Forever Chemicals

Despite mounting evidence that forever chemicals (phthalates) are harmful, there are still no restrictions in the US on these chemicals in food. A recent study showed that foods can be high in forever chemicals even if they are not packaged in plastic. This suggests that contact with processing machinery, handling with plastic gloves, and intermediate shipping materials may be our greatest sources of exposure to these harmful chemicals.

Unfortunately, swapping plastic containers for glass in our homes will not be enough. Indeed, the food tested with the highest forever chemical content was an Annie’s organic ravioli, which is sold in an aluminum can. This link here has some tips for reducing our exposure to forever chemicals.

The problems with forever chemicals stretch beyond processed foods. Fast foods, especially chicken-based ones had eye-popping levels of chemicals. Almost all of the foods in the chart were packaged in paper or aluminum.

Sadly, the forever chemicals were found to be pervasive in baby food as well.